Installation systems and methodology for helical strake fins

Abstract

An apparatus and method for helically installing a vortex-induced vibration (VIV) suppression fin about a tubular. The apparatus may include an outer ring member dimensioned to encircle an underlying tubular and an inner ring member positioned concentrically inward from the outer ring member. The inner ring member is configured to rotate with respect to at least one of the outer ring member or the tubular as the outer ring member moves along the tubular. The apparatus may further include a fin guide configured to receive a fin and helically position the fin along the tubular as the inner ring member rotates. A method of installing a vortex-induced vibration (VIV) suppression fin about a tubular may include removably attaching a VIV suppression fin to an installation member. The installation member may be positioned along a tubular and moved about the tubular to helically position the fin around the tubular.

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. An apparatus for helically installing a vortex-induced vibration (VIV) suppression fin about a tubular, the apparatus comprising:
 a shell configured to wrap a VIV suppression fin having a helical shape around a tubular, wherein the shell comprises a first section and a second section that are dimensioned to encircle the tubular; and 
 a fin housing extends from an inner surface of the shell and toward the tubular, 
 wherein the shell is dimensioned to position the fin housing against the tubular, and the fin housing is dimensioned to receive a portion of the VIV suppression fin and align the VIV suppression fin along the tubular. 
 
     
     
       2. The apparatus of  claim 1  wherein the fin housing comprises a channel having an opening that faces the tubular and within which the portion of the fin is positioned. 
     
     
       3. The apparatus of  claim 1  wherein the first section and the second section are connected at one side by a hinge, and connected at another side by a fastener. 
     
     
       4. The apparatus of  claim 1  further comprising:
 a handle connected to shell, wherein the handle is operable to allow for opening or closing of the support member around the tubular. 
 
     
     
       5. The apparatus of  claim 1  wherein the fin housing is a first fin housing, and the apparatus further comprises a second fin housing extending from an inner surface of the shell. 
     
     
       6. The apparatus of  claim 1  wherein the fin housing is fixedly attached to the inner surface of the shell. 
     
     
       7. The apparatus of  claim 1  wherein a height of the shell is less than a height of the VIV suppression fin.